The first: Embrace gratitude for what I have, even if it's not perfect. Most of the world would see it as perfect.

The second: Reject the temptation to compare. As my dad told me a million times growing up, "There will always be others with more than you, and always others with less."

The third: Get rid of most of my stuff, and I will enjoy the feeling of our home much, much more. Even if I don't purchase a single new item, I will feel as if I've redecorated.

For those who lack a large decorating budget but enjoy creating a comfortable home, I've included a handful of images of our second-hand treasures. I'm always motivated when I see what people do with thrifted finds. Most items were either found in thrift shops for under $5 or nabbed off curbs for free. A couple things are beloved family heirlooms. Almost every single thing under our roof is second-hand, and I truly love it that way. It isn't HGTV-worthy, and it's not everyone's style, but it's our happy home.

Various pre-loved books collected from various places

$5 bedside table with a new coat of paint

Found, free.

Garage sale

Found for free, and bought for $10

Free fence-posts-turned-planters by my talented husband

Found, free

Little salt keeper, $5 at an antique store

Antique mirror, NYC thrift-store find years ago

Patio furniture, mostly free finds, chairs $5

Family heirlooms, put to use every day

Mantel decor, found free

Shelf created from thrifted sconces and an old fence post

Farmhouse dining room table made by Kristian, using pieces from our previous kitchen table that was found at a garage sale for $10.

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